This article describes how to optimize Windows 7 performance, as well as perform routine maintenance and avoid program conflicts.

Issue 1: Automatically Optimize and Maintain Windows 7

Microsoft has created a pair of built-in automated troubleshooting packs to optimize and maintain Windows 7 performance.Dell Recommended: To attempt to fix this problem automatically, click the Fix it link below. Then, click Run in the File Download dialog box and follow the steps in the wizard.

Defragment Your Hard Drive. Files on your hard drive can sometimes become spread out, or fragmented, across different sectors of the drive. Defragmenting the hard drive aligns the pieces of those files in one sector, which increases the efficiency of the operating system to open the files. To learn more, see Microsoft KB article:"Improve performance by defragmenting your hard disk"

Update the Drivers on the Computer. Old drivers may cause certain applications to not run correctly, or may have bugs that have been fixed in later releases. Drivers should be checked for updates at least twice a year. Click the button below to visit the Dell Drivers and Downloads website to update your drivers!

Issue 3: Internet Explorer Maintenance

Internet Explorer stores your history, website cookies, and passwords, as well as your Favorites. If you are experiencing problems with Internet Explorer, use the Windows 7 Internet Explorer Performance Troubleshooter to clean up your web browser and get the most out of your browsing experience.

Issue 5: Using Multiple Antivirus Programs in Windows 7

The use of multiple anti-virus programs may cause your system to lock up. Anti-virus programs come pre-installed on most Dell Computers, so customers sometimes install other anti-virus programs without realizing that there is already a system installed. If you decide to install an alternate anti-virus software, it is important that you first uninstall any other anti-virus programs that may be running on your computer.

Choose only one anti-virus program and reinstall it. It is not recommended to have more than one anti-virus software package installed on your computer.